Introduction
Inflammation is a reaction of the body to an internal or external stimulus. Inflammation is a part of the immune response that is designed to eliminate the stimulus and speed healing. In connection with an inflammation, five typical symptoms occur in the area of the inflamed area: Redness, swelling, pain, overheating and a restriction of function.
In addition, fever, swelling of the lymph nodes and night sweats may occur. Itching can also occur together with inflammation. It is important to treat the inflammation locally to prevent it from spreading through the bloodstream in the body and leading to blood poisoning.
Active ingredients of anti-inflammatory creams
For the therapy of inflammation there is a large variety of different active ingredients that inhibit inflammation in different ways. There are numerous natural active ingredients that are suitable for the treatment of inflammation of the skin. However, the effect of the following preparations is only weak: camomile blossoms, witch hazel, devil’s claw, marigold or bromelain.
These substances can be used to make ointments or moist compresses, which are used to treat inflammation of the skin or mucous membranes. Due to their weak effect, they are only suitable for uncomplicated, mild inflammations. Other agents for use in inflammations are tanning agents such as oak bark, aluminum sulfate, bismuth complex compounds or zinc oxide.
These substances are also only suitable for inflammation of the skin. The active ingredient in Tannolact fat cream is phenol-methanal-urea polycondensate. Painkillers such as ibuprofen, diclofenac or aspirin are also effective against the inflammatory process and at the same time relieve existing pain.
Glucocorticoids such as cortisone and its derivatives are most commonly used, although they should only be used in more severe forms of inflammation. Less frequently used are antibodies that specifically inhibit the substances involved in the inflammatory process. If the inflammation is caused by an allergic reaction, anti-allergic drugs (H1-antihistamines) can help contain the inflammation. The creams, which are primarily used in inflammatory processes, contain either painkillers that have an anti-inflammatory effect or cortisone. The type and composition of the cream should be based on the site of inflammation.
